When a person develops dementia, their ability to make decisions and care for themselves declines over time. Determining who takes on this role depends on the individual’s situation and the legal steps already taken before the person’s condition worsens. Guardianship...
Guardianship
Different types of guardianship explained
Guardianship involves a person or entity legally responsible for caring for someone unable to care for themselves due to age, disability, or other reasons. When you start planning for the future, it is crucial to consider who will look after your loved ones in your...
Guardianship and Conservatorship for adults with autism
Guardianship and Conservatorship are important topics for families with adults who have autism. It is a legal process which gives a responsible person the authority to make decisions for an adult who is unable to do so alone. In Washington, guardianship aims to...
Valuable qualities to look for in a legal guardian
Selecting a guardian for a loved one is a weighty task. Assessing candidates and determining which is most suitable can be a delicate job. The final verdict should account for all the characteristics that make a guardian not just a caregiver but a true advocate for...
4 reasons you should not wait to select a guardian/conservator
Choosing a guardian/conservator is an important decision, especially if you have minor children or dependents. Delaying this decision can lead to complications and uncertainties that can affect your loved ones' futures. Here are some reasons why you should not wait to...
How does guardianship & conservatorship impact a ward’s rights?
Watching a parent age is often difficult, and it may prove even more so if that parent is experiencing notable cognitive decline. When an older adult living in Washington starts to become unable to effectively manage his or her own affairs, guardianship and...
How can you limit a guardianship?
As your parents have gotten older, you have probably observed that they are less able to tackle personal financial matters, perhaps due to memory issues or other cognitive problems. You may believe that at some point you will have to ask a court to approve a...
What does it mean to sue or contest a trust?
Whoever you select to oversee your trust will owe a fiduciary duty to the beneficiaries of your trust. Hopefully, your trustee will not encounter any legal issues while administering your trust. Still, sometimes a trustee cannot avoid a date in court. Smart Asset...
What should you consider when naming guardians for your children?
Knowing that if something happens to you, your children have loving and committed people to parent them can bring you peace of mind. Finding people who are the right fit to take on such a serious responsibility can cause some angst. When you know some strategies for...
Seeking guardianship of your aging parents
Watching your parents age can bring bittersweet moments and feelings of concern about their well-being. When their health reaches a point where you feel worried about their ability to safely care for themselves, you may consider acting as a guardian for them. The role...